Our top 3 picks for restaurants in Malta

While you wonder the streets of Malta you will find some great little cafes and restaurants to pop in to and try the local cuisine. Some of the best, however, you will need to book in advance. Here are our top three restaurant picks for your next trip to Malta.

Legligin Wine Bar, Valletta

117/119, Santa Lucia Street, Valletta, Island of Malta, Malta

This is a wonderful little restaurant in Valletta, and you will definitely need to make a reservation beforehand!.  There is no real menu per se, rather a set menu of about 8 courses (this may vary as they do change the menu from time to time and it can depend on what produce is available). It’s a great representation of local cuisines – some have described as a rustic vs. haute collaboration – and at a great price too! Approximately €17pp for lunch or €25pp for dinner. You’ll get more than enough delicious food, and have a great local experience at the same time.

The restaurant itself is lovely inside – small, quaint and intriguing. The staff are wonderful and can recommend some good Maltese wine to compliment the dishes.

Don’t fill up too much on bread, pace yourself, and if you get the chance make sure to try the chocolate truffles!

Malta - Valletta - Legligin Wine Bar
Inside Valletta’s Legligin Wine Bar

Piccolo Padre, Sliema (upstairs)

194-195 Main Street, Sliema, Malta

Ph: +356 2134 4875

https://www.piccolopadre.com

On the border of St Julian’s and Sliema you will find an old palace right on the sea. Here you will find two fantastic restaurants – Piccolo Padre, a pizzeria on the upper level, and Barracuda, a fine dining experience on the lower level (read more below).

Both establishments are busy and you will need to call ahead to make a reservation. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, with a great authentic feel to the pizzeria. Save room for the lemon gelato!

Malta - Sliema - Barracuda
Piccolo Padre Pizzeria at night

Barracuda, Sliema (downstairs)

194-195 Main Street, Sliema, Malta

Ph: +356 2133 1817

https://www.barracudarestaurant.com

As a fine dining experience right on the water front, with the water lapping at the edges of the restaurant (quite literally), you will definitely need to make a booking to get your foot in the door here. Try to request a bay –side table in order to enjoy the spectacular view with the waves foaming over the rocks.

Hearty, delicious and filling, you will need to make sure you arrive on an empty stomach. The Barracuda Carpaccio is a delight, as was the recommended Bouillabaisse. The head chef and staff all know their stuff.

Malta - Sliema - Barracuda
Barracuda’s view over the water at night

We always recommend taking the time to stroll through the cities at your own pace and discover new activities and restaurants. If you have any recommendations we would love to hear from you.

Thinking of heading to Malta? Our new 7-day Malta City Break explores the Isle’s top attractions, and also give you time to unwind and discover during your spare time.

 

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